JOHOR BARU: The sight of cattle wandering along Jalan Inas-Sungai Sayong, Jalan Mersing, and Jalan Sungai Mas-Lok Heng here has been a long-standing issue, even resulting in road accidents and even fatalities.
What's worse is that these animals are left to roam freely along main roads, causing concern and anxiety among residents.
A resident, Rashid Atan, 45, said these livestock often wander in large groups along several routes around Mersing, posing a danger to road users.
"Every time the animals roam onto the roads, motorists have to stop, which causes traffic congestion.
"Sometimes, drivers don't have enough time to stop, leading to collisions with the animals, resulting in vehicle damage, injuries, and even loss of life.
"For example, in June, a restaurant worker died after his motorcycle collided with a cow that suddenly crossed the road in front of a resort on Jalan Pantai Sepat here.
"It's an issue that needs to be taken seriously," Rashid said when met here.
Meanwhile, a resident of Sungai Sayong, Rashidah Hasbullah, 60, said the problem became more complicated as the owners of these cows are often difficult to identify, making compensation claims challenging after accidents occur.
According to her, the relevant authorities should address this issue by taking action against the owners of these animals.
"I hope strict action is taken against cattle owners who allow their livestock to roam the roads, causing traffic obstructions and endangering road users, especially during rainy weather.
"I myself almost collided with another vehicle in front that braked suddenly to avoid a crossing cow," Rashidah said.
In another instance, a road user from Jalan Sungai Mas-Lok Heng, S Bernard, 52, said he believes that the cattle frequently crossing that road belong to local farmers.
"The irresponsible attitude of farmers who let their cattle roam freely without control is very disappointing.
"I urge the local authorities to be stricter in addressing this issue and to carry out more frequent operations so that the farmers will 'open their eyes' about the offence they are committing," Bernard added.